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Astrology

Astrology is a divinatory belief system that interprets the positions and movements of celestial bodies as having significance for human affairs and events.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Astrology is a divinatory belief system that interprets the positions and movements of celestial bodies as having significance for human affairs and events. It is distinct from astronomy, which is the scientific study of celestial objects and phenomena. In modern usage, astrology is commonly associated with horoscopes and the 12 zodiac signs.

Definition

Astrology is the interpretation of celestial positions and movements as signs about personality, events, or fate. Reference works describe it as divination based on the supposed influence of heavenly bodies on human affairs.

History and cultural role

Astrology has ancient roots and has appeared in many cultures in different forms. It has long influenced calendars, court culture, and popular beliefs about fate and personality.

Astrology and science

Modern science distinguishes astrology from astronomy. Astronomy uses observation, mathematics, and physical theory to study the universe, while astrology is treated as a pseudoscience or non-scientific belief system.

Zodiac and horoscopes

Western astrology commonly uses 12 zodiac signs and chart-based interpretations linked to birth date, time, and place. A natal chart may include the Sun sign, Moon sign, and rising sign.

Key facts

  • Astrology interprets celestial positions as meaningful for human life.
  • It is defined as a divinatory belief system, not a science.
  • Astronomy is the scientific study of space; astrology is a belief system.
  • Western astrology uses 12 zodiac signs for horoscopes and natal charts.
  • Astrology is a real cultural practice but lacks scientific support.
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Canadian context

Astrology is part of contemporary popular culture in Canada, where horoscopes, zodiac signs, and natal charts appear in media, entertainment, and personal belief practices.

Frequently asked questions

What is astrology?
Astrology is a divinatory belief system that interprets the positions and movements of celestial bodies as meaningful for human affairs and events.
What are the 12 zodiac signs?
The 12 zodiac signs in Western astrology are Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.
Is astrology real?
Astrology is a real cultural and belief practice, but it is not considered a science and lacks scientific support for its claims.
How do I find my zodiac sign?
In Western astrology, your zodiac sign is usually based on your date of birth, with each sign corresponding to a date range in the calendar year.
What is my rising sign?
Your rising sign, or ascendant, is the zodiac sign that was on the eastern horizon at the time and place of your birth, so you need your birth time and location to calculate it.
What is the difference between astrology and astronomy?
Astronomy is the scientific study of celestial objects and the universe, while astrology is a belief system that interprets celestial positions as influencing human life.

References

  1. Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/astrology
    Supports: Dictionary definition of astrology as divination based on supposed influences of stars and planets.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/astrology
    Supports: Definition of astrology as divination and description of its relationship to celestial bodies and human affairs.
  3. Cambridge Dictionary — https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/astrology
    Supports: Definition of astrology and distinction from astronomy.
  4. Britannica Dictionary — https://www.britannica.com/dictionary/astrology
    Supports: Concise definition of astrology as supposed influence of celestial movements on people and events.
  5. The Planetary Society — https://www.planetary.org/articles/what-is-the-difference-between-astronomy-and-astrology
    Supports: Clear distinction between astronomy as science and astrology as divinatory belief system.
  6. HowStuffWorks — https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/horoscopes-astrology/question749.htm
    Supports: Use of birth data in astrology, including personality and fortune interpretations.